Info on buying 2013 used?

**manny_c44** · 08-14-2016 12:06 AM

Hey guys, I will probably be getting either a used 2013 a4 or 2015 a3. Can someone tell me what typical mechanical problems might be on the facelift a4 so I can do some research on them? Thanks!

**treginginco** · 08-14-2016 01:16 AM

Early runs had notchy electric steering racks ---- otherwise it's been relatively trouble free

**doublespeeded** · 08-14-2016 01:46 AM

Originally Posted by manny_c44

Hey guys, I will probably be getting either a used 2013 a4 or 2015 a3. Can someone tell me what typical mechanical problems might be on the facelift a4 so I can do some research on them? Thanks!

I think you need to be a little more detailed rather than just the year model and range.

I recommend providing the engine type, drive type etc. People may be able to provide you with more advice.

**manny_c44** · 08-14-2016 03:57 AM

I'm looking for a 2013 2.0TFSI Quattro A4 with standard body kit and suspension, xenon with LED DRLS, and a 6 Speed Manual Transmission, I'll be buying this in the USA so there is not much variation in the models there.

What do you mean by notchy power steering? Like a problem with the feel of the system? Or are the racks failing prematurely?

Mostly I am worried about engine, electrical or AWD problems. Small things I can fix myself but anything where you'd need to lift out or disassemble the engine would be things I want to avoid.

Are there timing chain tensioner problems with the newer engines?

Are Quattro systems generally reliable? I have only dealt with Haldex and FWD on my previous cars. If a torsen differential fails what kind of costs am I looking at? Similar to clutch replacement?

Thanks!

**4ringnut** · 08-14-2016 04:04 AM

The 2013 has less issues with oil consumption compared to the B8. With that said it will still have issues as any other Audi. Here's the list of stuff gone wrong with my car since I bought it with 9 miles on it. Rattling heat vent, creak in the body which took Audi 8 days to find and fix (bad weld), bad steering rack(notchy steering), bad intake manifold, cracked fuel line. I've had the car for almost 4 years, there were a couple of other things which I can't remember. Personally I'd go for the 2015 A3 Quattro with a 6mt and sports package.

**manny_c44** · 08-14-2016 04:13 AM

Yeah it's really difficult for me deciding between an A3 and A4, on the one hand the MQB cars all have sterling reviews and build quality is great but the A4 has Quattro and looks more serious, and most importantly I can get it with a manual.

But can you be more specific about what's wrong with the steering?

**4ringnut** · 08-14-2016 04:31 AM

It felt notchy when it was cold out. Meaning when you turned the wheel, there was a slightly resistance which felt notchy and not smooth.

**manny_c44** · 08-14-2016 04:31 AM

Woah that's totally weird I will search for threads on that.

**4ringnut** · 08-14-2016 04:33 AM

Btw, no one has ever looked at an A4 and thought "Wow, that car looks important". Drive both cars back to back, and buy the one you like better. Don't ever buy something based on what someone else finds more impressive.

**Project Quattro** · 08-14-2016 05:40 AM

Originally Posted by manny_c44

Woah that's totally weird I will search for threads on that.

George had exceptionally bad luck with his car for a while, but most of the 2013 A4s are very sound mechanically. I've not heard of issues with the Quattro system for any model year, some electrical components do fail with age (door lock actuators come to mind but I'm sure there are others), and from 2012 and newer the engines are pretty reliable. I wouldn't worry about it burying you with repairs unless you get extremely unlikely.

As for A4 vs. A3, it just comes down to what you're looking for. The A4 is obviously quite a bit bigger, but less modern in some ways since it's an older chassis. 6MT is a plus and the DSG programming in the A3 isn't ideal in my experience. The Quattro system in the A4 is objectively better (full time AWD, etc) but my girlfriend has had two VAG cars with Haldex systems and it's never been an issue in bad weather. Personally I prefer my A4 to the A3, but I prefer the S3 to the B8/.5 S4.

Get whichever one you like better and which meets your needs.

Sent from the Pedal Responce boardroom

**manny_c44** · 08-14-2016 06:04 AM

Ok thanks for the info @ProjectQuattro!

I really like the A3/S3 as a package, I especially love the look with the LED headlights and the lower suspension of the S3...but when it comes time to lay money down (especially over $20k), can I actually buy a car with an automatic transmission? That's the real question. Don't want to be stuck with a boring car and kicking myself. (All 3 cars I've owned so far have been MT)